The EU’s 2030 energy and climate targets, which the commission is due to propose on January 22, are stoking acrimony among countries and between commissioners. Governments, industry and green groups are lobbying the commission intensely over the goals.

A target for how much power European countries should derive from renewables is one of the most bitterly debated parts of next week’s package. The UK, which is increasing its use of nuclear power, opposes a binding goal. Germany, which is shutting down its reactors, is the most powerful voice in favour of an obligatory target.

A proposed compromise, now at the heart of discussions over the 2030 package, envisages that a renewables target, of less than 30 per cent, would be non-binding.

This compromise for 2030, if accepted in the face of German opposition, would represent a significant change from the EU’s 2020 targets. Discussions have been influenced by mounting concerns that the generous subsidies supporting renewable energy in the EU are driving up energy costs for European industry and undermining its competitiveness, especially compared to the US.